From the Korean peninsula to Somalia, the Ethiopian men and women in uniform placed their lasting footprints by delivering lasting tranquility and stability. In all areas that the Ethiopian troops were deployed, hosting people felt utmost safety.
Today, the Ethiopian troops are seen as a symbol of discipline, a source of peace, and a beacon of hope and optimism for those affected by violence.
The UN on several occasions recognized the Ethiopian contingent’s contribution. To cite but a few, last September Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations while he met then minister of foreign affairs Amb. Taye Atske Selassie (now President of the FDRE) in New York on the margins of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA79) commended the contributions of the Ethiopian peacekeeping force.
In 2012, the UN posted this on its website: “From the early days of UN peacekeeping to some of today’s most vital operations, Ethiopian men and women have played an important role in the Organization’s efforts to advance peace in the world’s hot spots. The country’s participation in UN-authorized operations dates back to 1951, as part of the UN multinational force in the Korean War.”
Another unique episode in Ethiopia’s peacekeeping operation surfaced in 2011. The catastrophic flare-up between the South Sudanese and Sudanese forces was brought to an end following the Addis Ababa agreement on Abyei. The crux of the accord was to demilitarize the region until the two sides resolved their differences.
On the heels of the agreement came the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA)—one of the largest contingents of the UN Mission. The warring parties put trust on Ethiopia and its troops to be deployed in the area. The excelled commitment, professionalism and courage were among the reasons that the two countries relied on Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian troops are selfless and they shed their blood for the interest of the innocent people in the areas of their deployment. For instance, members of the Kagnew Battalion that were deployed in Korea alongside other forces neither surrendered nor left their comrades who were fallen while in duty. No member was reported missing as well.
What is more, the Ethiopian forces engage in infrastructural development works in their places of deployment. They build roads, bridges …to the community of their deployment. Hence, people feel safe and do their day-to-day activities to subsist their lives and get out of trauma.
Ethiopia, as a founding member of the UN, continues contributing its share to the maintenance of international peace and security. The gallant Ethiopian Defense Force have built its capacity than ever before in all respects. Ethiopia and the ENDF are anchor of peace and security in the Horn region and beyond. The contribution will continue unabated so that our region in particular and Africa at large could transform into a place that is safe haven to their people.
This is not to deny that there are some peace spoilers that hide in the mask of peacekeeping. These forces have no iota of interest to advance peace and security. Nor they have the courage, capacity and experience to bring durable peace. A sane mind can see what is happening to their neighbors. When their neighbors are troubled in a vicious cycle of war and terrorism, the spoilers send their messy hands and add fuel to the fire. Alas! They attempt to trade in the guise of peacekeeping in far wary areas.
In sum, the unwavering commitment of Ethiopian troops to peacekeeping efforts across the globe has not only fostered stability but has also instilled hope in communities ravaged by conflict. Their dedication to protecting the innocent, coupled with their initiatives in infrastructural development, underscores their integral role in rebuilding war-torn societies. As recognized by the United Nations and other international bodies, Ethiopia’s contributions are vital for maintaining peace in the Horn of Africa and beyond. Despite challenges posed by peace spoilers, Ethiopia remains steadfast in its mission, determined to create a safer and more secure environment for all.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2024
